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9 of the best baby laundry detergents and stain removers 2024

Baby laundry detergent and stain remover

Baby laundry detergents have been formulated to be especially mild so that they don’t irritate a newborn baby’s sensitive skin.

Stain removers can be useful for removing stubborn poo stains on clothes.

How else can you remove stains from baby clothes?

Other alternatives to a stain remover are:

  • If it’s a clear day you can rely on the bleaching effect of the sun.

  • Rinse the offending area immediately under running water.

  • Scrub it with washing-up liquid.

  • Soak the clothing overnight in a bucket of cold water with a few tablespoons of both vinegar and detergent added.

Baby clothes drying on a line

Should you buy bio or non-bio for washing baby clothes?

The NHS used to recommend non-bio detergents for baby clothes because bio contains biological enzymes which can harm a baby’s delicate skin.

However, recent studies have shown that bio detergents are no more likely to irritate the skin and the NHS now say either is fine.

In fact, non-bio detergents are actually quite hard to find outside of the UK and some say they are just a marketing ploy.

Are non-bio detergents better for the environment though? The enzymes can mean bio versions take longer to degrade but some non-bios also have ingredients which are not eco-friendly. If this is a concern for you, look out for phosphate-free, 100% biodegradable detergents.

One good thing about bio detergents is that they remove stains at a much lower temperature, which is good for your energy bill. Although this is changing and some non-bios have been formulated to be just as good at 30˚C.

There are some situations where you may want to use non-bio. Like if there is a family history of very sensitive skin or eczema. And when washing reusable nappies, a bio detergent may damage the natural fabrics and reduce their lifespan.

THE BEST DETERGENTS AND STAIN REMOVERS FOR BABY CLOTHES AND CLOTH NAPPIES

If you want to use something that has been designed not to irritate a baby’s skin, here are nine of the most popular.

This list has been narrowed down to the very best with thorough research and the following considered:

  • Consumer reviews

  • Best-seller lists 

  • Recommendations from industry experts

  • Award-winning products

  • Personal experience and the products loved by other parents.

The list is updated annually. It was last updated on 18 January 2024. 

If you buy through a link, I may earn a small affiliate commission. 5% of profits are donated to UK Baby Banks to help parents in need of essentials.


 
 

1. Nimble Laundry Lover

Nimble Laundry Lover
 
  • Plant-based, allergen-free laundry detergent that removes poo stains.

  • Great for sensitive skin.

  • Made from 88% naturally derived materials.

  • Non-bio.

  • Not tested on animals.

 
 

2. Fairy non bio

Fairy non-bio
 
  • This is very popular amongst those dealing with sensitive skin, making it great for babies.

  • Dermatologically tested and awarded the Skin Health Alliance Seal.

 
 

3. Comfort Pure Fabric Conditioner

Comfort Pure Fabric Conditioner
 
  • This is a massively popular fabric conditioner for those with sensitive skin.

  • Hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested.

 
 

4. Ecover Non Bio Concentrate Laundry Liquid 

Ecover Non Bio Concentrate Laundry Liquid 
 
  • Non-bio detergent which is safe on sensitive skin.

  • Plant-based biodegradable ingredients.

  • 100% recycled plastic bottle.

  • Made in a zero waste certified factory.

  • Vegan and cruelty-free.

 
 

5. Bambino Mio Miofresh Natural Nappy Cleanser

Bambino Mio Miofresh Natural Nappy Cleanser
 
  • If you are using reusable nappies, this has antibacterial agents so you can wash at lower temperatures.

  • Contains no enzymes, perfumes or anything else that might cause irritation.

  • It is eco-friendly, cruelty-free and vegan.

  • Made in the UK.

  • There is also a washing powder designed for just clothes.


6. Ecover stain remover

Ecover stain remover
 
  • Plant-based, biodegradable ingredients.

  • The built-in applicator allows you to brush away tough stains.

  • Vegan and cruelty-free.

  • Made in a zero waste certified factory.

  • Bottle made from 100% recycled materials.

 
 

7. Napisan Non Biological Stain Remover

Napisan Non Biological Stain Remover
 
  • Disinfectant, stain remover and whitener.

  • Great for washing cloth nappies.

  • Removes stains even at 30˚C.

  • Non-bio.

 
 

8. Vanish Oxi Action laundry booster

Vanish Oxi Action laundry booster
 
  • This laundry booster and stain remover can eradicate tough stains even at 30°C.

  • Also prevents colour transfer, removes odours and hygienically cleans.

  • Can be used to pre-treat, soak or just place in the wash.

 
 

9. Surcare Sensitive Washing Powder

Surcare Sensitive Washing Powder
 
  • This non-bio washing powder is free from fragrances, dyes, acids and enzymes and has been approved by Allergy UK so may be suitable for washing the clothes of a child with eczema.

  • Not tested on animals.